Abby would lie awake for hours, staring out into the Cretaceous night while Connor slept, his arms wrapped around her, holding her close. It was more than mutual warmth, and they both knew it. He was trying to offer safety, comfort and protection against the shadows of the night.

Abby wished she could believe in that safety. Wished she could return his comfort and affection. But she couldn’t.

Oh, she trusted Connor completely, there was no question of that.

But even now, his cuddles were never quite enough to chase away the shadows of her past.